Biological Particle Positioning via Digital Image Reconstruction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining the position of biological particles along the axis of depth in a sample are ineffective for transparent particles that are confounded with the surrounding environment, as they cannot distinguish between the particle and the environment in images acquired at different depths.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that utilize a reference point and optical system to acquire a reference image, then reconstruct images with predetermined offsets along the optical axis, allowing for precise determination of the distance between the particle and the object plane, enabling accurate positioning of the particle of interest.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a series of images are acquired at different depths to determine particle position, then the position of opaque particles can be determined, but transparent particles cannot be distinguished from the surrounding environment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of image processing by introducing digital reconstruction with predetermined offsets along the optical axis. Instead of relying on direct visual detection at different depths, the system reconstructs images at multiple focal planes and uses the variation in image characteristics across these planes to determine particle position, enabling detection of transparent particles that are invisible in conventional depth-scanning images
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a computational dimension to the measurement process by performing digital reconstruction across the depth dimension. By reconstructing images at multiple offset positions along the optical axis and analyzing the variation of image characteristics (such as focus metrics or intensity distributions) across this reconstructed depth series, the system determines particle position without requiring the particle to be visually distinguishable at any single depth plane
2Measurement precision
If the object plane is positioned on the particle to acquire a clear image, then the position can be determined for opaque particles, but transparent particles remain indistinguishable
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes from direct optical detection to computational detection by analyzing parameter variations across reconstructed images. Instead of seeking a clear visual image of the particle, the method extracts positional information from variations in image parameters (such as focus metrics, intensity distributions, or phase information) across a series of reconstructed images at different depth offsets, making transparent particles detectable through their subtle optical effects rather than visual clarity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces digital reconstruction and image analysis algorithms as an intermediary between the optical system and particle detection. This computational intermediary processes the subtle optical signals from transparent particles across multiple reconstructed depth planes, extracting positional information that would be imperceptible through direct visual inspection of individual images
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach allows for precise determination of the position of biological particles, even when they are transparent and confounded with the surrounding environment, by using digital reconstruction and analysis of complex images to identify remarkable values in the reconstructed images, thereby overcoming the limitations of previous methods.
Implementation Method 1
using a sensor located in an image plane of the optical system, acquisition of an image of the illuminated region
Implementation Method 2
The sample is arranged between a first light source and an optical system
Implementation Method 3
using the reference image, digital construction of a series of reconstructed images, each of which is associated with a predetermined offset of the object plane along the optical axis
Data Source
AI summary
A method of analyzing a sample receiving a particle of interest, including: defining a reference point located on a first interface of the sample, or at a known distance from the sample, along the optical axis of the optical system; acquiring a reference image transmission of the sample, the object plane of the optical system being located at a known distance from the reference point along an axis parallel to the optical axis of the optical system, and the particle of interest being located outside of the object plane; using the reference image, digitally constructing a series of reconstructed images, each associated with a predetermined offset of the object plane along the optical axis of the optical system; and using the series of reconstructed images, determining the distance along an axis parallel to the optical axis of the optical system, between the particle of interest and the reference point.